Spring, when the mild (if moist) weather brings out the blooms across the parks and carries the fragrances across the city. The 3-day Spring Festival sees the whole country on the move to visit family, so be sure to prepare!

What to Pack

A VISA and IDs for security checks, and a willingness to adapt to a local culture in which Western customs such as lining up are not common. And be ready to live without Facebook and some of your favorite news websites!

General Tips

China’s modern, more outward looking city as compared to Beijing, Shanghai boasts museums and collections representing more contemporary society.

The enormous Shanghai Museum is the first essential stop for visitors, presenting historical items found since 1949. The Shanghai Art Museum and Rockbund Art Museum contain the works of China’s most important modern artists, and some international pieces too.

For timing your trip, Shanghai Contemporary is held in September while Shanghai Art Fair takes place in November.

Since 1993, Shanghai has held it own International Film Festival, now held in June, with the city’s Fashion Week held in April and October, each of which are gaining increasing attention in the region.